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Many Americans delay discussing their last wishes with family members and writing a living will, thinking they have plenty of time to do so.

America’s National Health Care Decisions Day, April 16, was established to encourage Americans to document their wishes relating to medical treatment, should they become incapacitated or unable to express their decisions, Top News reports.

Americans may become debilitated due to an accident or sudden illness, rendering them helpless and unable to make important medical decisions. Having an advance directive in place will outline the individuals’ wishes through either a living will or a health care proxy.

Living wills are legally binding documents that dictate the medical care a person wants, or does not want, in certain situations. A health care proxy is a legal document that passes all medical decisions to someone close to an incapacitated individual.

Many individuals register advance directives to protect their families from the burden of making difficult medical decisions. Individuals may also consider purchasing a life insurance policy to ensure their families would be financially stable in the event of a sudden death.

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